DC Kohima calls for swift action on Kohima-Phek NH-29 stretch

DIMAPUR — A team of officials led by Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B Henok Buchem, conducted a joint inspection of NH-29 connecting Kohima and Phek districts on September 19.

The inspection team included Revenue Officer of Kohima, Kevingoto Kulnu; EAC Kezocha, Limakumla Pongener; executive engineer and SDO of PHED Rural Kohima, DDMO Kohima (NSDMA), representatives from the NHIDCL, EPC contractor, and other concerned officials, a DIPR report stated.

During the inspection, the deputy commissioner expressed strong displeasure and concern over the deteriorating condition of the road and criticised the contractor's lack of urgency in carrying out timely maintenance and repairs.

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Emphasising the strategic importance of NH-29 as a vital lifeline for the districts of Phek, Meluri, Zunheboto, and Kiphire, linking them to the state capital Kohima, the NHIDCL and EPC contractor were instructed to initiate immediate road restoration and repair work.

The inspection team visited multiple critical locations, including the sinking zones at KM 22+536 and KM 22+834, as well as the damaged bridge at KM 23+665.

The contractor was directed to implement appropriate safety measures to prevent further road degradation, ensure prompt clearance of landslide debris, and resurface the damaged pavement along NH-29.

The contractor assured the officials that safety measures at the sinking sites would be in place by October 3. Additionally, a proposal has been submitted to the implementing agency to include the restoration of the damaged bridge in the project scope.

Inspection of damaged water pipeline in Kezoma

Meanwhile, the DC Kohima along with other officials, accompanied by the Kezoma Village Council, WATSAN committee, and village representatives, also visited Kezoma village on September 19 to assess the damaged water pipeline.

During a meeting, the Kezoma Village Council reported that after NH-02 was cut off at Phesama, all Manipur-bound heavy vehicles were diverted via the Kezoma-Kidima road (MDR), a DIPR report stated.

As a result, high-volume traffic of heavy vehicles and incessant rains deteriorated the road, damaging the adjacent village water pipeline and disrupting water supply, causing hardship to villagers.

The deputy commissioner acknowledged the village’s cooperation during the road diversion period. He stated that restoration of the Kezoma-Kidima road will be funded by the NHIDCL and implemented through the state agency.

Further, the damaged village water pipeline will be restored through collaboration between the district administration, PHED, and NSDMA. Buchem acknowledged PHED Rural Kohima and NSDMA for their support and contribution to this initiative.

The executive engineer of PHED Rural Kohima assured that restoration work will commence by September 22 and is slated for completion within 15 days.